Bus drivers strike

Bus passengers in Fenland could see their services disrupted after drivers voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action in a dispute over pay.

RMT union officials are expected to inform managers of Stagecoach in Norfolk, formerly Norfolk Green, of the dates of potential walk-outs in the next few days, following last week’s ballot of members at its King’s Lynn depot.

The company operates several services to Fenland including the number 66 Wisbech town route and the 46 service which connects March and Wisbech with King’s Lynn.

Almost 90 per cent of those who voted backed strike action with more than 98 per cent supporting action short of a strike, such as an overtime ban.

An RMT spokesman said: “We wish to apologise to our passengers for the steps we are about to take, but members are very angry with the offer put on the table.

“We are available to open talks with Stagecoach.”

The company has offered a 40 pence per hour increase in drivers’ hourly rate, currently £8.50, of which 25p would be drawn from an attendance allowance, which is currently 75p.

Managers insist the offer is fair, above inflation and addresses a number of other concerns raised by the union.